Location
Scientific Campus, Colindale, London

Hours
Full Time (hours not specified)

Salary
£39,959 per annum

About the Role
The Biomedical Scientist will deliver a specialist reference and medical laboratory service to support efficient and effective patient care and resource management for users of the National Mycobacterium Reference Service South (NMRS-S). This role involves working exclusively with Mycobacterium species, including Hazard Group 3 organisms, within Containment Level 3 facilities. The post holder will perform a range of diagnostic and reference laboratory tests, assess clinical relevance of diagnostic requests and laboratory results, and apply scientific judgement to determine the pathogenic and clinical significance of findings.

Key responsibilities include performing complex technical procedures such as culture, microscopy, and genotypic (molecular) testing for diagnosis and characterisation of mycobacterial infections. The post holder will ensure accurate interpretation, documentation, and reporting of results, maintain appropriate preparation and storage of reagents and consumables, and contribute to the evaluation and introduction of new methodologies and technologies.

Supervision of non-state registered staff and trainees will be required, providing technical guidance and training to maintain professional standards and consistent laboratory procedures. The role demands strict adherence to quality assurance, quality control, and laboratory governance requirements, including participation in audits, investigations, and incident management.

Working in a high-containment laboratory environment, the post holder must comply with health and safety regulations, risk assessments, and safe systems of work when handling Hazard Group 3 organisms and infectious materials.

The role also involves providing technical advice and scientific information to service users and healthcare professionals, communicating complex scientific data clearly and professionally, and supporting service development through participation in validation projects, quality improvement initiatives, and performance monitoring.

Professional development is essential, with maintenance of HCPC registration and up-to-date knowledge of microbiology, mycobacteriology, and laboratory practice.

Experience
- Performing complex laboratory investigations
- Working knowledge of microbiology and laboratory diagnostic practices
- Experience in interpreting and analysing laboratory data and results
- Ability to supervise and support other staff
- Experience working in Containment Level 3 laboratories and with Mycobacterium species is desirable
- Experience in workforce development, training, or public health/reference laboratory environments is advantageous

About you
- Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail
- Ability to work independently and prioritise workload effectively
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
- Commitment to maintaining professional standards and continuing professional development

Qualifications
- Degree or equivalent qualification acceptable for HCPC registration as a Biomedical Scientist
- HCPC registration as a Biomedical Scientist
- Evidence of continuing professional development
- Comprehensive knowledge of health and safety requirements within laboratory environments
- Knowledge of quality assurance and quality control systems